Ripple has announced plans for the launch of the Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin in Japan in partnership with SBI Holdings.
Why Japan Matters
Japan has become a critical proving ground for new crypto and blockchain applications due to its clear licensing framework for stablecoins. This provides firms like SBI VC Trade with a head start in bringing products to market. By positioning RLUSD here, Ripple gains access to regulatory-friendly conditions in the Asian market, while SBI strengthens its reputation as the first Japanese firm to actively handle stablecoins under official licensing.
Building Trust in Stablecoins
The global stablecoin market is already valued at nearly $300 billion and is projected to grow to trillions in the coming years. However, not all coins are created equal. Ripple insists that RLUSD is built to institutional standards: fully backed by U.S. dollar deposits, short-term government bonds, and cash equivalents. Independent attestations from third-party accountants are intended to reassure regulators and financial institutions.
What Comes Next
The rollout of RLUSD in Japan is targeted for the first quarter of 2026, with SBI VC Trade leading distribution. For Ripple, this marks not only an expansion of its product portfolio but also an opportunity to compete with giants like USDT and USDC in Asia. Japan's stablecoin rules, combined with Ripple's reputation and SBI's extensive network, create a powerful stage for RLUSD.
The launch of RLUSD in Japan highlights Ripple's strategy to expand its presence in the Asian market and creates opportunities to showcase the scalability of compliant stablecoins.
